In this matter the property was subject to a first mortgage to East Boston S. B. and a second mortgage to Ogan which, on its face was stated to be a second mortgage. The property was sold. The new owner took out a loan with East Boston S. B. to buy the property. The closing attorney missed the Ogan second mortgage, paid off the old East Boston mortgage and recorded a new mortgage in favor of East Boston S. B. As a result of the closing, the Ogan second mortgage jumped into first lien position and affected the new owner’s estate.

The SJC determined that the equities operating in support of the Doctrine of Equitable Subrogation apply equally in a sales transaction. There are five basic questions to be asked in support of the Doctrine of Equitable Subrogation:

1. Was payment made by subrogee to protect its interests?
2. Did subrogee act as a volunteer?
3. Was subrogee primarily liable for the debt?
4. Did subrogee pay-off the entire encumbrance?
5. Will application of the Doctrine work a hardship on any junior lienholder?

The Doctrine only applies to the extent funds are paid and actually applied towards payment of a prior lien. Excess funds are not protected. The SJC declined to adopt a rule stating that knowledge—actual or constructive—will defeat the Doctrine. Equity determines application of the Doctrine. The Court reserves its full powers of equity and shall not have its decision power circumscribed by the element of knowledge. Knowledge has many levels and is not susceptible to any clear rules in the equity process.

The Doctrine does not undermine confidence in the recording system. A sale does not cut-off all prior interests which can be assigned to a new owner.

This is the latest in a long line of cases in support of the Doctrine of Equitable Subrogation. The case contains a good historical review of Massachusetts courts’ long tradition favoring the Doctrine.